A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including English Language). Level 2 vocational qualifications (e.g. BTEC/OCR) must be a merit grade or above and only one will count as one GCSE equivalent.

A grade 3 in English Language is accepted for this course providing you have a grade 4 or above in English Literature. You will also need to enrol on English Language GCSE alongside your A-levels.

Although NOT essential, a GCSE in DT grade 4 is preferred

GCSE Mathematics grade 4 or above

50%exams

50%coursework

Exam board: OCR

96%of students were awarded a Distinction for the City and Guilds CAD qualification last year

The College runs two design courses. D&T Product Design allows students to explore CAD modeling, drawing and presentation techniques and has an integral 3D element involving model making and use of workshop machinery. Graphic Communication encourages free expression and focuses on font work and the relationship between typography and image leading to purely 2D outcomes.

Product Design and Graphic Communication have some complementary overlaps, and can be taken together by students who wish to specialise in design at a higher level.

The D&T Product Design course is compatible with most other A-level courses, depending on your chosen career path. They include Art & Design, Textile Design, Photography, Communication Studies, Business Studies, Mathematics and Physics. The exact combination can lead to different career options and can be discussed with staff at enrolment events.

Students following the course explore product design in its widest sense, through coursework projects and theoretical knowledge. Subjects covered during the Product Design course include iterative design, technical illustration and high level design sketching with a focus on industrial and commercial practices to understand materials and manufacturing techniques.

The use of industry standard computer graphics packages and CAD software is included in the course, alongside more traditional skills such as rendering, marker pen work and presentation. 3D modelling is integrated with 2D graphic techniques to produce students with outstanding skills. Integral to the course is the iterative design process. Students are encouraged to become independent learners and will gain an understanding of, and simulate the work of professional designers in their project work.

Aaron Howell

First Year

The course is divided into separate modules, commencing with an induction course.

Students following the course, explore product design in its widest sense, through coursework projects and theoretical knowledge. Subjects covered during the product design coursework include advertising, packaging, print technology, technical illustration, orthographic and other drawing methods. The use of industry computer graphics packages and CAD software is included in the course, alongside more traditional skills such as rendering, marker pen work and presentation. 3D modelling is integrated with 2D graphic skills. Integral to the course is the design process. Students are encouraged to become independent learners and will gain an understanding of, and simulate the work of professional designers in their project work.

Second Year

By the end of the first year, students will have gained the comprehensive design skills necessary to commence their NEA coursework project. This will be the main focus of their study until completion around Easter, and will lead to a quality prototype model and work suitable for portfolios. They will then prepare for summer examination with intensive revision and thorough exam practice.

Unit 1

Principles of Product Design

Exam board OCR

Exam

26.7%

Unit 2

Problem Solving

Exam board OCR

Exam

23.3%

Unit 3

Iterative Design Project

Exam board OCR

Coursework

50%

Some highlights from DT Product Design!

Methods of Teaching and Learning

A series of focused design tasks are set, that are organised so that you develop a wide range of graphic and design skills and understanding.

Enrichment

Visits are made to the New Designers exhibition in London.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is undertaken by a combination of coursework assessment and written/design examination.

Progression

On successful completion of these courses, and depending on other A-level subjects taken, students can develop their studies through a range of Higher Education courses. These include: Industrial Design, Product Design, Arts Foundation, 2D and 3D degree courses, architecture, interior design and CAD/CAM based manufacturing courses.

Resources

Design and Technology has a purpose built suite of rooms complete with a design studio and workshop including a range of industry standard CNC machines. New to the department is a suite of 3D printers. This allows students to rapid prototype CAD designs.

Charges

You will need a range of graphics materials that will be supplied by the college. The cost of these items is approximately £40. Use of a PC at home will be an advantage as you will have access to a free educational license of Solidworks to use as part of the course. Students will also be required to pay towards materials for their major project. It is likely that this will be around £30. The cost of all trips will be the responsibility of the student. Financial assistance is available if required.

Other Information

You will be asked to do a small assignment before starting the course. This must be completed before enrolment.

Plenty of advice will be given and no specialist equipment is necessary.